In heartbreaking news, rock ’n’ roll legend Tom Petty has reportedly passed away at the age of 66. Best known for his work with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, the acclaimed musician was discovered in full cardiac arrest at his Malibu home late last night, and was later taken off life support.
Initially announced by TMZ, the Los Angeles Police Department later confirmed that the 66-year-old rocker was found “unconscious, not breathing and in cardiac arrest” at his home, and was then transported to UCLA Santa Monica Hospital.
TMZ’s report claimed that due to a lack of brain activity, a decision was made to pull the former rockstar’s life support. However, Petty’s family are still yet to make an official statement.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002, Petty sold more than 80 million records worldwide—with both the Heartbreakers and as a solo artist—making him one of the best-selling musical artists of all time.
Fans are already pouring out their hearts to Tom Petty on social media, sharing their tributes to the singer and condolences to his family. The reactions to Petty’s passing have been heartfelt and hopeful, showing that in a world torn apart by suffering, music can still bring people together.
“Music is probably the only real magic I have encountered in my life… It’s pure and it’s real. It moves, it heals…” — Tom Petty